Events

The Autumn Orchard Festival sets to celebrate the harvest from Norton Priory’s extensive orchards, including the National Collection of Tree Quince, the only one of its kind in the UK.

Visitors can enjoy an artisanal market in the museum building with gifts and treats from local suppliers, as well as lots of produce from Norton Priory’s orchards and the Walled Garden. A pop-up bar selling mulled cider and other seasonal drinks can be found in the atmospheric setting of the medieval Undercroft. There will also be live performances from local bands.

Find fun outdoor games and activities on the croquet lawn in the Walled Garden including pumpkin ring toss and skittles. You can also take part in an autumnal trail around the garden.

*NEW for 2026* Don’t miss out on the very first Norton Priory Bake-Off at the Walled Garden where a grand selection of homemade apple and quince cakes will compete for the title of Best Bake. More details to come.

This event is included with General Admission, with up to 3 children free per paying adult! Book online ahead of time for a discount. Pre-booking closes at 11.45pm the night before your visit. Or pay General Admission on arrival. 

Can you find all 10 Grumpy Pumpkins?!

Pick up a trail sheet and head out to find the grumpiest, lumpiest, bumpiest pumpkins lurking in the museum grounds and woodland.

Each pumpkin guards an ingredient to a spell that the Witch of the Wood needs to wake up her old friend Haystack Jack! Find all 10 ingredients, unscramble the magic word, and win a delicious surprise from Jack and the Witch for your help.

This event is included as part of a visit to Norton Priory between 10am and 5pm. 

Dates Available:

Sat 24th Oct / Sun 25th Oct

Mon 26th Oct - if you would also like to book Frightfully Fascinating Workshop with Animal Teach as well as Grumpy Pumpkins for this date, please click here for tickets.

Tues 27th Oct

Thurs 29th Oct - if you would also like to book Spooky Stories for Little Monsters with Rogan Mills as well as Grumpy Pumpkins for this date, please click here for tickets.

Fri 30th Oct / Sun 1st Nov

£1 child entry includes trail sheet.